An infestation of Japanese beetles was recently discovered in Sacramento County, California. The Japanese beetle is a voracious invasive species that has caused extensive damage.

A two-stage treatment of roughly 100 properties begins August 2nd. The first stage targets adult beetles, while the second will attack grubs; officials believe the infestation to be localized. Local residents have been advised to not move plants or plant material.

Japanese beetles present a threat to turfgrass and other ornamental plants. On the East Coast, this invasive species has already proved to be a costly problem. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that over $460 million a year is spent trying to control them.